Canon and Sony News for Mar 2014 (Page 5)

Calumet Photographic announced via its Facebook Page this morning that all of its stores in the United States would be closing.

"After 75 years of business it is with a heavy heart that we announce our immediate closing in the United States (our European stores will continue). It has been a joy to share our passion for photography with you all of these years. We'll miss each other and we'll miss all of our customers. Thank you for everything."

Calumet would later go on to say:

"Stay tuned, as we are exploring opportunities to reopen select locations to keep serving our customers. We will post any updates here if there are any."

There are reports that the Chicago-based photographic retailer has filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy. For the time being, there are no official plans to close Calumet stores outside of the US.

Amazing is how strong and rigid such a small tripod can be: Gitzo GT1542T Traveler 6x Carbon Fiber Tripod Review

B&H recently lowered the price on the GT1542T by about $100.00.

From Nikon USA:

MELVILLE, NY – Today, Nikon Inc. announced the new Nikon 1 V3, a compact, yet powerful addition to the Nikon 1 Advanced Camera with Interchangeable Lens System. Designed to make no sacrifices when it comes to speed, performance and image quality, the blazing fast V3 sports an impressive Hybrid AF system and the world’s fastest continuous shooting frame rate*(1) at 20 frames-per-second (fps) with full autofocus, a speed that outpaces even pro D-SLR cameras. Ideal for capturing fast-moving action, sports and wildlife, the new Nikon 1 V3 offers a top-class feature set that includes an 18.4-megapixel CX-format image sensor, a new EXPEED 4A image processor, 1080/60p Full HD video capabilities, built-in Wi-Fi connectivity*(2) and a new touch-panel tilting LCD display. Whether searching for a compact interchangeable lens camera that can do it all or a D-SLR companion camera for moments when time is of the essence, the V3 can satisfy the needs of the enthusiast or professional.

Further expanding on the growing stable of 1 NIKKOR lenses, Nikon has also introduced the new 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 PD-Zoom and the 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 telephoto zoom lenses, providing even more impressive lens options for Nikon 1 shooters.

“The versatile Nikon 1 V3 allows the photographer to capture even the fastest moving subjects with clarity and ease,” said Masahiro Horie, Director of Marketing and Planning, Nikon Inc. “With an incredible feature set, a newly crafted ergonomic design and sporting the elite high-speed performance that has become a hallmark of the Nikon 1 System, the V3 is ready to help users make amazing images and HD video.”

Capture the Shots That Matter With Uncompromising Speed and Quality

The Nikon 1 V3 makes no sacrifices in terms of speed, performance and image quality, as Nikon continues to innovate and invigorate the Nikon 1 System. The camera sports the world’s fastest continuous shooting frame rate at a blazing fast 20 frames-per-second (fps), faster than other mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras, and ideal for capturing fast-moving action and sports. Combined with an outstanding Hybrid AF System, every fleeting moment can be captured with incredible precision and accuracy. With 171 contrast detect focus areas and the center 105 areas supporting phase detection AF, the V3 provides super-fast AF response and accuracy when capturing still images or HD video in addition to exceeding the AF abilities of many D-SLR camera offerings.

The Nikon 1 V3 also features elite imaging specifications that help ensure superior image and HD video quality and impressive low-light performance, including the addition of a high-resolution 18.4-megapixel CX-format image sensor and new EXPEED 4A image processing engine. Together, they help render true colors and incredible detail, whether shooting an exotic safari or the local swim meet. The V3 also carries an ISO range of 160-12,800 with high ISO noise reduction, providing the versatility to effortlessly capture images in difficult low-light shooting scenarios.

Exceptional Video Performance and a Dynamic Feature Set

When still images are not enough, the Nikon 1 V3 sports an outstanding number of video features that today’s multimedia photographer can take advantage of. The V3 is capable of recording Full HD video at 1080/60p with Movie e-VR (Electronic Vibration Reduction) which helps to eliminate camera shake to record smooth and clear movies. Full-time continuous AF is also possible during video recording, helping maintain critical HD focus, while the versatile CX-format sensor assists in creating video with a beautiful shallow depth of field. The V3 can also capture slow motion video at an impressive 120 frames-per-second (fps) in high quality 720p HD. Additionally, users can capture full resolution still images during video recording, rounding out an impressive and comprehensive stable of video features at the user’s disposal.

In another first for the Nikon 1 series, the V3 features built-in Wi-Fi connectivity*(2), helping users seamlessly share every unforgettable moment. Connect to a compatible smart phone or tablet and share precious photos with friends and family by uploading them to social networks. The Nikon 1 V3 also empowers the user to unleash their creativity, with fun and unique shooting options for all levels of photographer. The V3 offers a wealth of creative modes previously found in models like the Nikon 1 AW1 and Nikon 1 J3, including Miniature Effect, Easy Panorama and Selective Color, in addition to new modes like Creative Palette, Toy Camera and Cross Process, for a truly customized photography experience. Mainstay Nikon 1 System features such as Slow View, Live Image Control and Motion Snapshot return in this iteration of the V-Series, further enhancing a dynamic and versatile feature set for even the most demanding of photographers.

Elegant Styling, Superior Operability

The Nikon 1 V3 has been ergonomically designed to allow the user to shoot comfortably and confidently in a variety of shooting scenarios. The extremely compact yet sophisticated body sports conveniently placed external controls with two programmable function buttons, allowing the enthusiast to tailor their camera to their own personal shooting style. An additional function button is added with the optional GR-N1010 grip, a lightweight option that provides steadier handling, as well as an additional shutter button and sub-command dial that will be familiar to D-SLR shooters.

Another innovative addition to the Nikon 1 Series is the V3’s new tilting, touch-panel 3-inch LCD monitor that allows photographers to compose brilliant images and HD video from various new angles. This thin and versatile monitor is a convenient tool for adjusting settings on the go, affording the user the ability to quickly trigger the shutter when capturing a photo or change the focus point when capturing video by simply touching the screen. Playback is seamless and a new Highlight Display function helps the user to spot washed-out highlights after shooting. Additionally, a Virtual Horizon feature with pitching detection helps frame landscapes and architecture with rich detail and beautiful focus.

As part of the versatile Nikon 1 System of advanced cameras with interchangeable lenses, the Nikon 1 V3 is compatible with eleven 1 NIKKOR lens options ranging from ultra-wide-angle to telephoto, while users can also employ their arsenal of NIKKOR glass using the optional FT-1 Mount Adapter. Users can also take advantage of the Nikon 1 System’s 2.7x crop factor for increased range when shooting sports or wildlife, making it an ideal companion for the D-SLR shooter. Nikon also offers an optional external high resolution 2359k-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF), the DF-N1000, and optional multi-accessory grip, the GR-N1010, alongside the Nikon 1 V3 for increased control and handling. The V3 also maintains compatibility with Nikon 1 external flashes and the ME-1 external microphone (with the AS-N1000 Multi Accessory Port Adapter).

Go Farther with New 1 NIKKOR lenses

Announced alongside the Nikon 1 V3, Nikon has introduced two new 1 NIKKOR lens offerings. Kitted with the V3, the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 PD-Zoom is an evolved compact zoom lens, ready for nearly any situation. Sporting a useful 3x zoom (27-81mm equivalent), the new 10-30mm lens is equipped with a unique power drive zoom dial that allows for simple and smooth zoom capability, ideal for capturing sharp and steady HD video.

Additionally, Nikon has also introduced a powerful new telephoto zoom lens option that takes Nikon 1 users farther than ever before. The new 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 lens features a super-telephoto focal range (189-810mm equivalent) that can get the photographer up close to sports action or wildlife from a distance. The first 1 NIKKOR lens crafted with Super ED Glass, the 70-300mm lens is equipped with built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) and Nano Crystal Coating to prevent ghost and flare.

Price and Availability

The Nikon 1 V3, kitted with the 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 PD-Zoom lens, the DF-N1000 Electronic Viewfinder and the GR-N1010 Grip will be available in April 2014 for a suggested retail price (SRP) of $1,199.95. The 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 PD-Zoom and the 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 lenses will also be sold separately for $299.95 and $999.95 SRP, respectively.

Preorder Opportunities:

Nikon 1 V3 Mirrorless Digital Camera with 10-30mm Lens - B&H
Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 10-30mm f/3.5-5.6 PD-Zoom lens - B&H
Nikon 1 NIKKOR VR 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 Lens - B&H

Tamron has the Tamron 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD Lens Owner's Manual (English - PDF, 459KB) available for download.

B&H carries the Tamron 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Di VC USD Lens.

There are two significant reasons why you want use a carbon fiber tripod – and one significant reason why you might not want to buy a carbon fiber model.

The Manfrotto MT190CXPRO4 Carbon Fiber Tripod Review provides the reasons to answer the big "Is carbon fiber worth the extra cost?" question.

In its latest "About A Photograph" release, Think Tank Photo features Al Diaz's touching image of Pamela Rauseo performing CPR [successfully] on an infant alongside Miami’s State Road 836.

You can read more about the event on Al Diaz's blog and learn more about CPR on the Mayo Clinic website.

Have you seen Manfrotto's latest 190 Series tripods? The new MT190 tripods sport a sharp, innovative design while retaining the great functionality and value they have long had.

Just Posted: Manfrotto MT190XPRO4 Aluminum Tripod Review

I have been using and loving Gitzo Systematic Carbon Fiber Tripods for a very long time and have finally picked up the latest iteration of my favorite model in this line. What I found was that this release upgrade includes more significant improvements than I expected. Check it out:

Just posted: Gitzo GT3542LS Systematic 6X Carbon Fiber Tripod Review

From Canon USA:

MELVILLE, N.Y., March 6, 2014 – Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging solutions today announced that its parent company, Canon Inc., has ranked among the top global companies, placing sixth overall and third internationally in the computers category of this year's Fortune World's Most Admired Companies list. In the international computers category, Canon ranks as the top Japanese company and the sole representative of the imaging industry. Contributing to their rankings, Canon has received high accolades for innovation, quality of products/services and financial soundness.

The 2014 list was separated into 57 industries from a variety of business areas. With input from executives, directors and analysts, close to 700 companies from 30 countries around the world were analyzed and ranked based on various criteria.

"Fortune's World's Most Admired Companies list includes well-regarded leaders in the business world," said Kotaro Fukushima, senior director and general manager, Corporate Communications, Canon U.S.A. "To be included in this ranking is an honor in itself and further exemplifies our commitment to our customers and the communities we serve."

Fortune's World's Most Admired Companies list can be found at: http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/most-admired/.

From Photoshelter:

In our newest guide, Pricing Your Work: Photojournalism, discover tips to connect with potential news clients and publications, learn what fees and terms you can expect, plus get negotiating pointers and resources to help get your foot in the door and build your career in this field.

Also learn answers to questions like:

• What are the four types of clients photojournalists typically work for?
• How do you turn news media prospects into paying clients?
• What are examples of fees, terms, and contracts you’ll likely encounter?
• To what extent are rates and terms negotiable?
• What type of insurance do you need?
• Plus more!

Pricing Your Work: Photojournalism is the third in a series of guides with Wonderful Machine's CEO Bill Cramer and is packed with tips to help you price your photography and cut your best deal.

Download Photoshelter's Pricing Your Work: Photojournalism Guide.

In a surprise move, Getty is now offering the free use of over 35 million of its images via its new embed tool. The images are watermark-free and simply display captions with the images linking back to Getty. (thanks James)

This move is undoubtedly due to the huge number of unpurchased Getty images floating around the web. Getty hopes the embedded images will increase exposure, expand its client base and open up new sources of revenue.

More information can be found in these articles by CNET and The Verge.

By the way, if you want to use one of this site's copyrighted images for your own personal use, you can! Just read Bryan's Free Use of DSLR Camera, Lens and Accessory Product Images.

What do you think about Getty's decision to allow free, non-commercial use of its images? Let us know in the comments section below or on our Facebook Page.

From MindShift Gear:

MindShift Gear has released the lightest, most compact camera cover for outdoor photography, the UltraLight Camera Cover, available in three sizes. This “skin-style” camera pouch/cover is designed for outdoor, nature, and action photographers who wear a normal or pro DSLR camera with small to medium lens out on their chest, ready to shoot. Its adjustable shock-cord on lid allows the cover to fit multiple camera and lens combinations.

The UltraLight Camera Cover comes in three sizes:

• UltraLight Camera Cover 10: Fits a small DSLR (Canon Rebel or Nikon 5200 series) with kit lens or short zoom (up to a 18-55mm f/3.5-f/5.6, 24-105mm f/4 or 24-85mm f/2.8-4)OR fits standard-size DSLR (Canon 5DMIII or Nikon D800 series) with prime lens or short zoom (up to a 85mm f/1.2, 24-105mm f/4 or 24-85mm f/2.8-4)
• UltraLight Camera Cover 20: Fits a standard or pro DSLR (Canon 5D MIII/1DX or Nikon D700/D4) with attached standard zoom lens (up to 24-70mm f/2.8)
• UltraLight Camera Cover 30: Fits a standard or pro DSLR (Canon 5D MIII/1DX or Nikon D700/D4) with attached large zoom lens (up to 70-200 f/2.8)

With the UltraLight Camera Cover photographers can use their camera neck strap for extra support in active adventures. Its orientation brings the camera closer to photographers’ center of gravity, allowing greater balance and stability during extreme action. It doesn’t block the view of their feet like a bulky camera case. It also fits under any backpack. It features a weather-resistant flap cover and lightly padded front, bottom and rear panels. It accommodates lenses facing out or facing down depending on the photographer’s carrying preference.

MATERIALS

For superior water-resistance, its all exterior fabric has a durable water resistant coating while the fabric’s underside is coated with polyurethane. It uses 100D rip-stop nylon, 210D velocity nylon, nylon webbing, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

SPECIFICATIONS

UltraLight DSLR Cover 10

• Internal Dimensions: 6.7” W x 5.1” H x 6.3” D (17 x 13 x 16 cm)
• Compressed Dimensions: 4.3” x 6.1” x 1.8” (11 x 15.5 x 4.5 cm)
• Weight: 5 oz (141 g)

UltraLight DSLR Cover 20

• Internal Dimensions: 7.1” W x 7.5” H x 7.5” D (18 x 19 x 19 cm)
• Compressed Dimensions: 6.3” W x 6.7” H x 1.6” D (16 x 17 x 4 cm)
• Weight: 6 oz (172 g)

UltraLight DSLR Cover 30

• Internal Dimensions: 7.1” W x 11.4” H x 8.7” D (18 x 29 x 22 cm)
• Compressed Dimensions: 5.9” W x 8.7” H x 1.8” D (15 x 22 x 4.5 cm)
• Weight: 6.8 oz (192 g)

MindShift Gear has the UltraLight Camera Covers available for order.

From MindShift Gear:

MindShift Gear announces the release of the first case designed for quick access to round, square, and rectangular camera lens filters, the Filter Hive. The Filter Hive solves organizational and functional problems of conservation, landscape, outdoor action, and wildlife photographers who need quick access to filters of different shapes. The filter case resembles a bee hive with padded, felt-lined slots that protect delicate glass and resin filters.

The Filter Hive’s padded exterior case and accordion-style removable insert holds up to six flat graduated neutral density filters up to 4x6” (100x150mm) and six round filters up to 82mm diameter, including the thick 1.5cm variable neutral density filters. It is belt mountable and will attach to MindShift Gear’s rotation180° Panorama and rotation180° Professional backpacks. Its grab handle with

SR buckle allows it to be hung from a tripod for quick access. Its color coded organization allows filters to be located quickly. It has a front zippered pocket for quick access to a lens cloth and its YKK zipper keeps out dust, moisture and debris.

MATERIALS

• Exterior: All fabric exterior treated with a durable water resistant coating while fabric underside is coated with polyurethane for superior water resistance, YKK zippers, 100D rip-stop nylon, 210D velocity nylon, nylon webbing, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.
• Interior: 200D polyester lining, nylex lined filter pockets, closed-cell antilon foam, nylon binding tape, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

SPECIFICATIONS

• External pouch: 8.1” x 5.3” x 3.9” (20.5 x 13.5 x 10 cm) (W x H x D)
• Removable Filter Insert: 7.3” x 4.3” x 3.1” (18.5 x 11 x 8 cm) (W x H x D)
• Rectangular Filter Slots: 6.7” x 4.3” (17 x 11 cm) (W x H)
• Round Filter Slots: 3.4” x 3.6” (8.6 x 9.1 cm) (W x H)
• Weight: 0.5 lbs (0.2 kg)

MindShift Gear has the Filter Hive available for order.

From Think Tank Photo:

Think Tank Photo Releases Two App House Hybrid Shoulder Bags/Belt-mounted Bags for Apple Tablets

SANTA ROSA, Calif. – Award-winning design firm Think Tank Photo just released the App House 8 and the App House 10, two hybrid bags for quick access to a small or standard-size Apple tablets either as shoulder bags or mounted on belts. Streamlined and secure, their small size, removable shoulder strap, and double-lock belt-mount make it practically effortless for anyone to carry and access their tablet and stay connected around town or when traveling.

Key features include:

• Dedicated pockets for carrying a smart phone, device accessories, plus other small items.
• Premium materials: YKK RC Fuse zippers, antique nickel-plated metal hardware and durable, long lasting, nylon fabric.
• A dedicated, easily accessible smart phone pocket with soft liner.
• An internal organizer with elastic and zippered pockets for connection cables, card readers, power cables, portable charger, pens, or other personal items.
• 4-way stretch pocket on front for rapid access to lens caps, memory cards, batteries or other items.
• Removable and adjustable shoulder strap with non-slip pad.
• Double-lock belt attachment for added security.
• Grab-handle on top for quick pickup.
• Seam-sealed rain cover included in zippered compartment on bottom.
• Think Tank “No Rhetoric” Warranty…period.

MATERIALS

Exterior: For superior water-resistance, all exterior fabric has a durable water-repellant (DWR) coating, plus fabric underside is coated with polyurethane. These bags also have YKK RC Fuse zippers, 250D shadow ripstop nylon, 420D high density nylon, 550D spun polyester, 200D polyester, antique nickel-plated metal hardware, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Interior: 210D silver-toned nylon lining, nylex lined phone and tablet pockets, 150D hexa mesh pockets, 200D polyester, closed-cell antilon foam, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

App House 8

• External Dimensions: 6.1” W x 8.5” H x 1” D (15.5 x 21.5 x 2.5 cm)
• Smart Phone Pocket: 3.5” W x 5.2” H x 0.4” D (9 x 13.3 x 1 cm)
• Tablet Compartment: 5.3” W x 7.9” H x 0.8” D (13.5 x 20 x 2 cm)
• Weight with all accessories: 0.6 lbs (0.3 kg)

App House 10

• External Dimensions: 8.1” W x 10” H x 1.4” D (20.5 x 25.5 x 3.5 cm)
• Smart Phone Pocket: 5.9” W x 3.5” H x 0.4” D (15 x 9 x 1 cm)
• Tablet Compartment: 7.9” W x 9.8” H x 0.8” D (20 x 25 x 2 cm)
• Weight with all accessories: 0.8 lbs (0.4 kg)

Think Tank Photo Releases Modular Pixel Pocket Rocket: Belt-mountable with dedicated clear interior panels fit Six Camera CF cards and Three SD cards

Think Tank Photo’s new Modular Pixel Pocket Rocket (PPR) is belt-mountable. This enables photographers to easily whip out their CF and SD cards and to keep them securely and conveniently at hand when shooting. The Modular PPR is easily secured by a sturdy hook-and-loop panel to any Think Tank Photo modular belt or to any belt. It holds six CF cards and three SD cards, as well as other small accessories, such as a smart phone or lens cloth.

Photographers can untuck the neck-strap from its own interior slot as a wearable option to show ID or credentials through the clear panel.

Key features include:

• Capacity: Holds 6 CF and 3 SD cards.
• Belt-mount option with double security attachment.
• Built-in neck-strap as a wearable option to readily show ID or business cards through a clear external pocket.

MATERIALS

Exterior: For superior water-resistance, all exterior fabric has a durable water-repellant (DWR) coating plus fabric underside has a polyurethane coating. It also has 250D shadow ripstop nylon and 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

Interior: 210D silver-toned nylon lining, 3-ply bonded nylon thread.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Exterior Dimensions: 4.7” W x 5.1” H x 0.6” D (12 x 13 x 1.5 cm)
• Photo ID Window: 3.9” W x 2.2” H (10 x 5.5 cm)
• Weight with lanyard: 0.2 lbs (0.1 kg)

Think Tank Photo has the App House Hybrid Bags and Modular Pixel Pocket Rocket available now.

As a reader of our site, receive a free gift with your purchase of $50.00 or more at Think Tank Photo!

Nikon USA has the D4S User's Manual (PDF, English - 23.7MB) available for download.

B&H has the Nikon D4S available for preorder.